Batteries now included

A new contract recently negotiated by the North West Region Waste Management (NWRWMG) with Glassdon Recycling of Toome allows an array of additional materials to be thrown in the blue recycling bins as opposed to the black wheelie bin.

The contract with the County Londonderry plant has been operational since 2003 and to date, over 20,000 tonnes of materials have been sent for recycling in the Derry City Council area.

Used newspapers, magazines, cardboard, plastic bottles, food and beverage cans were initially permitted for disposal in the blue bin but this was amended in September 2008 to include all papers and aerosol cans. Materials are then transferred to Toome for sorting and onward recycling.

But now a new contract agreement extending the waste agreement for an additional two years, brings a reduction in the price of 3 per tonne and the addition of several other waste materials into the scheme.

A report to be presented by the City Engineer to Derry City Council's Environmental Services Committee tomorrow outlines the new arrangements.

"With immediate effect the following additional materials can now be deposited into household blue bin - tetra paks, all plastic food packaging containers, small waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) such as kettles, toasters etc., and textiles and household batteries," it states.

"Householders will be encouraged to continue to use existing disposal options with regard to textiles, household batteries and WEEE i.e. charity shops, clothing banks, Household Recycling Centres etc. but are now however advised that, should they wish to dispose of these items at home, they can be deposited in the 'blue' recycling bin as opposed to the 'black' landfill bin," it adds.

The new arrangements will improve Derry City Council's recycling rates and reduce the amount of wastes requiring landfill.

A "kerbie" box scheme will continue in the interim with users having the option to dispose of the items listed above in either the box or 'blue' bin.

"Officers are in discussion with several contractors regarding glass collection schemes and will bring forward a further detailed report in due course," the report states.